Lorier MerlinvsOrient Bambino Solar Quartz

Owners widely praise the Lorier Merlin for its vintage-inspired 37mm case, heat-blued hands, raised numerals, and hesalite crystal. The watch is noted for its comfortable wear, with some finding it wears large despite its size and even thinner on a two-piece strap. Drilled lug holes and a locking bezel are also appreciated features. Accuracy varies, with one owner reporting +8 seconds per day, while others do not specify. Some owners find the dual-crown design unappealing or the case chunky, with the 37mm size feeling small for a dive bezel watch, though others find it perfect for smaller wrists. The supplied strap and its hardware are considered cheap by one owner, and the bezel action is described as light and hollow. A desire for a sapphire crystal option at the price point is mentioned by some, while others prefer the hesalite for its vintage look. On balance, owners and the community rate the Lorier Merlin highly for its authentic vintage aesthetic and comfortable wear.

Owners widely praise the Orient Bambino Solar Quartz for its nice finishing and value, with one owner noting it was worth the $220 spent. However, reviewers consistently flag the mineral crystal as a significant drawback, prone to scratches and abrasions. One owner reports the Orient Bambino Solar Quartz wears thinner due to its lighter movement and less robust construction. Overall, owners rate the Orient Bambino Solar Quartz highly for its finishing and value, despite the mineral crystal's susceptibility to scratches.